Cosmetic tattooing or permanent makeup (also known as semi-permanent makeup or micro-pigmentation) is a technique similar to tattooing, in which a needle is used to place pigmented granules beneath the upper dermis or first layers of skin. Cosmetic tattooing is soft, subtle, and is meant to be a natural-looking beauty enhancement.

Cosmetic tattooing is considered semi-permanent and will not wash off. However, it will fade over time and may need a touch-up every 1-2 years, likely to completely dissipate after 3 years.

Touch-ups are normal for cosmetic tattoo procedures, with each new procedure requiring 2 visits. The initial procedure is followed by a touch-up procedure 6-8 weeks later. Both visits are included in the initial cost and it is recommended to schedule your touch-up during your first session. With most procedures, the color looks dramatically lighter after the first week. Some clients prefer this, while others opt for a bolder look. At the second treatment, we will assess the color retention and make adjustments as necessary. Everyone heals differently and at different rates. If your cosmetic tattoo does not heal perfectly the first time, do not worry! We can always go darker and add more density at your next appointment.

Previously tattooed eyebrows may require additional appointments and rarely achieve similar results to those who have no previous tattoo work. Additional services are offered at a lower cost within the first two years of your cosmetic tattoo if you feel that it may need just a little bit of extra love after the 8-week period.

Permanent makeup is designed to fade over time. All of this can make it sound a little not worth it. But honestly, fading is desired as it allows alterations to color and shape over the years while your natural coloration, facial structure, and fashion trends change.

How Much Does Permanent Makeup Cost?

The answer depends on the desired procedure(s), as well as the quality of the studio and experience of the artist. When you’re shopping for something as long-lasting as permanent makeup, you want to look at more than just price. Consider how long the studio has been operating, the education and experience level of the artist, client reviews and testimonials, proper sterilization, and good equipment. Remember, you get what you pay for. It can save you a lot of money and embarrassment to do it right the first time.

To ensure the most comfortable experience possible, topical anesthetics developed for permanent makeup procedures are applied to the area before and during the procedure. Some people describe a ‘tingling’ feeling, while others describe some discomfort. It all depends on the procedure and your particular tolerance level. We do hear often that there was not as much discomfort as expected.

The average appointment takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. Numbing and mapping the area takes a majority of this time, while actual tattooing takes about 45 minutes.

I use the highest grade, pharmaceutical iron-oxide-based pigments. Permanent cosmetics are considered generally very safe, and adverse reactions are rare.

In some cases, we can revive traditionally tattooed eyebrows. Cover-ups depend on the current color, age of the previous tattoo, and scar tissue. Scar tissue does tend to reject pigment. In a lot of cases, there is a great chance microblading will not hold.

Previously pink or orange tattooed eyebrows have a better chance for coverage but still can look pretty solid depending on each individual’s skin. Darker, previously tattooed eyebrows are harder to cover because the hair strokes applied to disappear into the previous tattoo. Think of this like drawing on black paper with a black pen. You won’t see much. If the issue is to adjust the color from blue back to brown, we CAN color correct. We can also make them thicker but they will always be solid where the old tattoo exists.

If you need to cover up work, please email me for a consultation. If you are unable to schedule an in-person consultation, please send photos so I can do my best to assess your eyebrow.

What Factors Will Affect My Cosmetic Tattoo?

Sun exposure:
UV rays fade pigment faster. Sun block may be used to prolong your enhancement, despite the natural deterioration of the pigment.

Color:
Some colors fade quicker than others. A blonde color will fade quicker than a dark brown color.
The area of treatment:
For example: Enhancements to the face fade more quickly due to constant exposure.

Natural body functions:
The longer it takes for your body to regenerate new cells, the longer the pigment holds. Your body will also absorb the pigment over time. The slower the absorption, the longer the pigment will hold.

For eyebrows: If you have an ideal shape and color in mind, bring a few reference photos with you to your appointment. If you regularly get your eyebrows shaped, waxed, threaded, or tinted, please let me know. If there are any stray hairs that fall outside of our final shape, we can remove them. You may fill in your eyebrows prior to your appointment if you wish so we can get a sense of what your daily makeup routine is like. If you plan to go on a vacation, it is recommended to plan your trip a minimum of 14 days after the procedure. We also request our clients avoid prescription blood thinners (if possible) for 24 hours prior to their appointment. This also includes Vitamin E, aspirin, and alcohol.

How Will I Look Immediately After? What Is The Healing Process?

Your semi-permanent makeup will appear darker and bigger than expected for the first few days. This will gradually lighten during the complete healing process. Please view my aftercare instructions for details about the healing process.

How Will My Cosmetic Tattoo Look In The Future?

During your appointment, we will analyze your skin’s undertone to anticipate how pigment colors will fade in the future. We will also mix pigments to ensure the color remains in the same tone. The majority of cosmetic tattoos stay true to color. There are some cases, however, where colors may fade to different tones according to the individual’s response to the pigments. Many factors affect these changes. At your follow-up appointment, we will analyze how your body has responded to the initial color. Special formula alterations to correct the color and to prevent further color change is made at this time.

Future Medical Procedures And Their Relevancy:

If you are planning a chemical peel, MRI, or other medical procedure, please inform the technician that you have had an iron-oxide cosmetic tattoo. Careful application must be taken to avoid affecting the tattooed area.
If you are planning to have laser treatments, tell your laser specialist to avoid the pigmented area. Laser may cause pigment to turn black.

Tips are appreciated but not expected. They are a service industry standard at 10-30%.

Tip Tor Tat
First of all, your artist will never expect you to tip, but they appreciate it when you do. This article should make the entire experience a little less painful by simplifying the tipping situation. Many details factor into the cost of your tattoo and the same goes for your tip. A basic rule of thumb to follow is 10%-30% per piece ($10-$30 per hour).

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Your tip should reflect your experience. Was your artist totally awesome, informative, and attentive? Did they take your vision and turn it into something magical? Then perhaps you may feel like tipping on the higher end of the scale.
• Was your piece super complicated? Did you really put their skills to work? Did you make a lot of changes to the original design? In the end, did they take the time with you to make sure everything was perfect and gave you that crazy awesome piece you always dreamed about? A nice tip says, “Thanks for putting up with me.”
• Getting a tattoo can be a special experience. Your artist can make it even more meaningful. Most tattooists really enjoy learning about your tattoo’s story and it can help them breathe more life into the composition. If your artist went above and beyond the technical and helped to give you a real heartening moment, return the love. It makes them feel awesome.
• Conversely, if your artist did not seem enthusiastic about your ideas, gave you minimal effort or attention, and the work turned out mediocre, then tip accordingly and find another artist!